Even the smallest water feature can benefit wildlife. Carefully positioned away from ambushing cats in a sunny position, with gently sloping edges, a water feature can provide a safe place to drink, bathe and even breed. Don’t add any ornamental fish as they will eat all the wildlife!

7. Peat free compost

Using home-made compost instead of peat saves important peat bog habitats, home to many of Britain’s rarest and most spectacular wildlife.

8. Hedges & walls

Hedgerows are important highways, shelter belts & sources of food for animals throughout the year Bees prefer to nest in south facing old walls so take care when re-pointing..

9. Nest boxes

Make or buy nesting boxes for birds, bats, insects, hedgehogs & even toads – all will eat your garden pests. But keep them safe from cat & dogs.

Put bird boxes on east-facing, sheltered spot

Place bat boxes in groups of 3, facing different directions, high up on large trees